cut it / things close

/kˈʌt ɪt θˈɪŋz klˈəʊs/

/kˈʌt ɪt θˈɪŋz klˈoʊs/

[phrase]

to cut it / things close

[PHRASE]

to manage to do something just before the time is over

What is the origin of the idiom "cut it loose" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "cut it loose" is difficult to trace, as it has likely emerged through common usage over time. It is often used in various contexts to describe situations where timing is crucial and success is accomplished by a narrow margin.

Examples

1. They ended up winning the game, but they really cut it close at the end

2. Well, Gambrinus, I have to cut things close sometimes, I admit, but I haven't outright failed yet.

3. Gavin is cutting it close!

4. Cutting it close, you know me.